How to Be the Right Parent to an Adopted Teen

Adoption is a wonderful process that gives a child in need a loving home and family to call their own. Unfortunately, adopting a teenager can often be a long and difficult road, since you’re taking on the responsibilities of an older child who needs additional care, both physically and mentally. Oftentimes, teens in the foster care system are there because they have problematic histories with crime, drugs and past family calamities. Taking on an adopted teen is difficult work, but it is well worth it considering the fact that you’ll be responsible for turning that child’s life around.

If you’ve adopted a teenager recently and are finding that you’re experiencing problems, it might be a good idea to consider seeing a family counselor. Counselors are trained and experienced to handle a wide array of different issues, including those found in adopted families. The adoption agency will probably have a list of approved therapists who are specific to adopted families, so you might want to consider contacting the agency if you’re experiencing problems at home.

The key to getting along with your adopted teen is to understand what they’re going through and what their past was like. Keep in mind that you’re bringing a teen into a totally new environment that they might not like, especially if you’re a stricter family with more guidelines and rules than they’re used to following. You need to be as patient as possible with your child because this is the time they need it the most. If they require space away from you, your spouse and your other children, let them have that space and don’t force them to do anything. There is a difference between being a caring, loving and protective parent and being an overbearing one who is making life miserable for their adopted teenager. When it concerns your child, it’s all about giving the situation time in order for you all to get along and consider yourself a family.